By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026
Quick Answer
Smoke Smoked Chicken Wings at 120-135°C (250-275°F) then finish at 190°C (375°F) for 1.5-2 hours total. Target internal temperature: 74°C (165°F). Rest for 5 minutes.
Smoked Chicken Wings Smoking Overview
The two-stage method is the secret: low smoke first for flavour, then crank the heat to crisp the skin. Tossing in baking powder (not baking soda!) draws moisture from the skin surface, resulting in seriously crispy wings. Toss in your favourite sauce right after they come off the smoker.
Smoker Temp
120-135°C (250-275°F) then finish at 190°C (375°F)
Smoke Time
1.5-2 hours total
Internal Temp
74°C (165°F)
Best Wood
Apple, cherry, or pecan
Difficulty
Beginner-friendly
Serves
1kg wings feeds 2-4 as appetiser
How to Smoke Smoked Chicken Wings — Step by Step
- Prep: Pat dry, toss with baking powder and your favourite rub. Baking powder helps crispy skin
- Set up your smoker: Preheat to 120-135°C (250-275°F) then finish at 190°C (375°F). Add your wood chunks or chips — Apple, cherry, or pecan work best.
- Smoke: Place the smoked chicken wings on the grate and smoke for 1.5-2 hours total. Don't wrap — crispy skin is the goal
- Check doneness: Skin is crispy and golden, meat pulls easily from the bone, internal temp reads 74°C (165°F)
- Rest: 5 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Smoking the entire time at low temp — rubbery skin
- Crowding the grate — wings need airflow
- Saucing too early — the sugar burns
- Skipping the baking powder trick
Best Wood for Smoking Smoked Chicken Wings
Our top recommendation: Apple. Mild to medium woods work best. Pecan, cherry, and apple add subtle smoke without overwhelming the flavour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to smoke smoked chicken wings?
Smoke smoked chicken wings at 120-135°C (250-275°F) then finish at 190°C (375°F) for 1.5-2 hours total. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F).
What wood is best for smoking smoked chicken wings?
Apple, cherry, or pecan are the best woods for smoking smoked chicken wings. Experiment with different woods to find your preferred flavour profile.
What temperature do you smoke smoked chicken wings at?
Smoke smoked chicken wings at 120-135°C (250-275°F) then finish at 190°C (375°F). Maintaining a consistent temperature is more important than hitting the exact number — stay within the range and you'll get great results.
Related BBQ Guides
Sources & References
3
Serious Eats
Kenji Lopez-Alt's scientific guide to juicy grilled chicken.
Reference
